The Best Offseason Ski Workouts

Another ski season has come and gone, and as spring approaches we find ourselves hanging our skis up until next winter. Just because you’re not regularly hitting the slopes doesn’t mean you can’t stay in skiing shape all year long. There are so many people who jump right back into skiing when the season comes around without properly preparing in the offseason. Try these great offseason workouts to avoid sore muscles after your first time out on the slopes next year.

Box Jumps

Skiing is an activity that uses all of the muscles in your legs, so you’ll want to make sure you’re doing workouts that mirror that same type of movement. Box jumps are a great way to keep your legs in shape and increase strength. Lateral box jumps will mimic cornering while you are on the slopes. Start with a small box and slowly work your way up as you get more comfortable with the movement.

Deadlifts

Deadlifts are essential to a workout routine no matter what activity you are preparing for. It’s is arguably the single most important lift you in all of weightlifting as it incorporates your entire body. You will strengthen your legs, core, grip, and back by performing dead lifts. You won’t need to lift heavy weight, and if you have never deadlifted before you should make sure someone who is versed in the lift is able to help correct your form.

Lunges

Lunges will activate your quads, which are probably the most used muscles when you are skiing. There are plenty of lunge variations you can choose from, but I suggest starting with the traditional lunge without weight until you are comfortable with your form. From there you can carry dumbbells or kettlebells to increase your leg strength and drive. You can also incorporate a plyometric box for step-up lunges that will add a new dynamic to the workout.

Wall Sits

You’d be surprised at how difficult it is to sit in a squatted position against a wall for an extended period of time. This simple workout is a staple for many skiers across the country as it builds lean muscle and improves leg strength. Once you start getting stronger and the wall sits become easier you can hold weight in front of you to increase the difficulty.

Skiing is a full-body workout, and there’s plenty of time in the offseason to get stronger and increase your muscular endurance. Don’t let the summer months keep you from becoming a better skier. Try these workouts and you’ll find that you will be able to stay on the slopes longer without experiencing fatigue or muscle soreness next year.